Community Rallies Together for Suicide Prevention!

The sun was shining brightly on the masses as they gathered to collectively take a step forward toward hope. Over 300 participants, 40 agencies and businesses and 60 volunteers converged on the Sanford Event Center Saturday, September 15th for the 6th Annual Run/ Walk/ Skate for Suicide Prevention. The event unites people with a common goal of helping to prevent suicide and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. Many people participate because they have lost a loved one to suicide or they know someone suffering from a mental health disorder that puts them at risk of suicide.

This year’s event garnered a significant increase in support from the Bemidji Area and beyond. Over 20 different “teams” of people from all over collected “pledges for prevention” ranging from $100 to over $900 per team. The generous contributions of everyone involved brought in over $7000 for the Beltrami Area Suicide Prevention Program!

Activities include education and awareness programming to every high school in Beltrami County, local colleges and universities, and community organizations. The program also provides assistance to suicide loss survivors through information referral and a support group.

It is difficult to find the appropriate words to express our gratitude for the generosity of numerous individuals, groups, agencies and businesses that contributed to healing event for so many in our community. Thank you for your efforts to raise public awareness about suicide and encourage individuals to ask for help.

Information about prize winners and runner awards can be found at http://www.evergreenyfs.org.

Heartbeat Monthly Support Group

Support for Survivors of Suicide Loss

When: Second Tuesday 7:00-8:30pm

Where: Sanford Bemidji Hospital

Education Room- East Entrance

For more information: Stephanie Downey 218-751-4332

Marcy LaCroix 218-556-6241

Note: The November support group will be meeting at a location to be announced.

SUICIDE CRISIS LINES:

If you or someone you know, is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress please call:

1-800-422-0045 in Beltrami, Hubbard and Clearwater Counties

Nationally 1-800-273 TALK(8255)